What does the "C" in the CIA Triad stand for?

The "C" in the CIA Triad stands for Confidentiality. This principle is a cornerstone of information security, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that sensitive data is not accessed by unauthorized individuals or entities. Confidentiality involves implementing measures such as encryption, access controls, and authentication systems to protect sensitive information from disclosure to those who do not have the right to view it.

Understanding confidentiality is crucial in various cybersecurity contexts, as breaches of confidentiality can lead to significant consequences, including identity theft, loss of competitive advantage, and damage to an organization’s reputation. It is one part of a larger framework, along with Integrity and Availability, that ensures the overall security of information systems.